Wednesday, March 16, 2016

News Release - Winnipeg Police Service

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Fraud Prevention Month  Identity TheftThe Winnipeg Police Service would like to take this week of Fraud Prevention Month to remind citizens that it is important to protect yourself against identity theft.

Identity theft occurs when criminals involved in fraud steal information related to your identity; name, date of birth, Social Insurance Number, Passport, Income Tax documents, etc. The information collected by the scammer will then be used for various purposes such as obtaining credit in your name or the opening of accounts such as cellular phone contracts. Identity Theft can create havoc with your credit for several weeks, months or even years. This video created by the Bank of Canada on YouTube demonstrates this problem.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwnYUVmcfQU&index=3&list=PL0F99C5ACBEE1346C

The criminals will use several techniques to collect your information including "dumpster diving" where they will gather documents that were discarded.

Shred all your documents that have your name or personal information on it. You can either purchase a shredder or use a shredding service.

This year Winnipeg Police Service is holding a FREE shredding day with Shred-It at St. Vital Mall on March 24th between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. There is a maximum two bags or boxes per person. Find us at the "Shred-It" truck!

Another method the fraudsters have of obtaining your information is through your email. Never open any emails from people you do not know because it might open a virus that can obtain your information. Also, never provide any personal information over the internet or over the phone if you have not initiated the contact. A financial institution will never email or call you and ask for your account details.

Be part of the conversation! Twitter event on March 22 from 12-1 pm at #WPSFraudSquad. A financial crimes investigator will be available to answer your questions, and if more convenient you can even ask your questions in advance